These Brie and Bacon Phyllo Cups are a wonderful treat! Crispy phyllo dough filled with creamy Brie cheese and crispy bacon makes every bite tasty and fun!
Honestly, who can resist warm cheese and bacon? I love serving these at parties; they always disappear fast! You can whip them up in no time for a tasty snack!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Phyllo Dough: This flaky dough is essential for the cup’s texture. If you’re unable to find phyllo, puff pastry can be a great stand-in, though it will be a bit denser.
Brie Cheese: This creamy cheese adds richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try Camembert, which has a similar texture and flavor. Vegan cheese can also work if you’re avoiding dairy!
Bacon: Use regular bacon for added crispiness, or go for turkey bacon for a lighter alternative. For a vegetarian option, consider using crispy sautéed mushrooms for similar umami flavor.
Caramelized Onions: These add a sweet depth. You can skip them if you’re short on time, but cooking some onions until golden really elevates the flavor! For quick sweetness, you might use store-bought onion jam instead.
How Do You Work with Phyllo Dough?
Phyllo dough can seem tricky at first, but with a little patience, it’s manageable! Here’s how to handle it effectively:
- Keep the phyllo covered with a damp cloth while you work to prevent it from drying out.
- Brush each sheet lightly with melted butter; don’t overdo it, or the cups might become soggy.
- Layering three sheets at a time gives you a sturdier base without making it too heavy.
- Be gentle when pressing the dough into the muffin tin to maintain its delicate texture.
Practicing with phyllo can be fun! Don’t worry if your first few cups aren’t perfect; they will still taste delicious!
Brie and Bacon Phyllo Cups
Ingredients:
- 6 sheets phyllo dough
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 8 oz Brie cheese, cut into small cubes
- 6 strips bacon
- 1/2 cup caramelized onions (optional, adds extra sweetness)
- Fresh thyme or oregano leaves for garnish
- Optional: honey or fig jam for drizzling
Time Needed:
This delightful recipe will take you about 20 minutes of prep time and an additional 15 minutes for baking, making a total of about 35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and impressive appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a mini muffin tin and give it a light greasing. This will help the phyllo cups come out easily once they are cooked.
2. Cook the Bacon:
Fry the bacon strips in a skillet until they are nice and crispy. Once cooked, place them on paper towels to drain any excess grease, then chop them into small pieces. The smell will be amazing!
3. Prepare the Phyllo Dough:
Unroll the phyllo dough and lay one sheet on a clean, flat surface. Using a brush, lightly coat it with the melted butter. Layer two more sheets on top, brushing each with butter as you go. This will create a sturdy base for your cups.
4. Cut and Shape the Dough:
Once you have your layers ready, cut the stacked phyllo into squares about 3×3 inches. You should have enough to fit each square into the muffin tin, where you will press them gently down into the cups.
5. Assemble the Cups:
Now it’s time to fill your phyllo cups! Place a cube of Brie cheese in the center of each cup. If you’re adding caramelized onions, follow this with a small spoonful on top of the Brie.
6. Add the Bacon:
Sprinkle the finely chopped bacon bits over each cup, letting that delicious flavor come through!
7. Bake the Cups:
Put the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. You want the phyllo to be golden and crisp, while the Brie melts beautifully.
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, remove the cups from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. For that finishing touch, garnish them with fresh thyme or oregano leaves and drizzle a little honey or fig jam over the top if you want a touch of sweetness.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
These savory, cheesy, and crispy bites are best served warm. Sit back and enjoy these delightful phyllo cups with friends or family!
This recipe beautifully combines the light texture of phyllo with creamy Brie and crispy bacon, creating a fantastic appetizer that everyone will love!
Can I Use Frozen Phyllo Dough for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen phyllo dough! Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or on the counter until fully defrosted. Keep it covered with a damp cloth while working to prevent it from drying out.
How Do I Store Leftover Phyllo Cups?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Can I Make These Cups Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for extra flavor. You could also add some herbs or spices to enhance the taste!
What Can I Substitute for Brie Cheese?
If you can’t find Brie, Camembert is a great alternative due to its similar creamy texture and flavor. You might also try a soft goat cheese for a different twist!
